From a three-door Range Rover to Jaguar’s new electric iPace, there’s no shortage of eye-candy on JLR’s stand at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. But there’s one surprise debut that trumps the SUVs – and, indeed, lays claim to being arguably the coolest car of the show, in our opinion.
This 1984 Series 3 Jaguar XJ6 has been brought up-to-date by the firm’s Classics division on behalf of its new owner: Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain. Part of the Jag XJ’s 50th anniversary celebrations, the one-off model is the result of 3,500 man hours with more than 4,000 parts refinished, replaced or redesigned.
Nicko had an input into designing his dream Jag, as did Jaguar Design studio director Wayne Burgess. The result is a car that’s bound to prove controversial but, in the metal, looks the business.
A Greatest Hits edition
“This is my ultimate XJ – my third, and lovingly named ‘Johnny 3’,” said McBrain. “It has been a true labour of love between Jaguar Classic and myself. I’m so excited by its completion and especially to be showing it at Geneva – it really is a Greatest Hits edition and to me it defines what the Jaguar XJ is all about.
“It’s a credit to the craftsmanship of the Jaguar Classic team.”
Highlights include bespoke front and rear bumpers, while flare wheel arches accommodate unique 18-inch wire wheels (possibly the most controversial aspect of the car).
Are wire wheels ever cool?
— Andrew Brady (@TheAndrewBrady) March 6, 2018
The suspension’s been beefed up with adjustable dampers, while the paintwork is a bespoke mauve paint finish. LED headlights provide a ‘halo’ daytime running light signature, while the interior continues the modern classic theme.
Modern door seals reduce wind noise, as does additional sound deadening. There’s an integrated touchscreen infotainment system providing satnav, a rear-view camera and phone connectivity. Guitar amplifier-inspired knobs control the audio system.
Leather seats are hand trimmed in red with black piping along with embossed headrests, while a handcrafted black carpet and Alcantara headlining completes the modern look.
It’s not all about appearance, either. A 4.2-litre inline six engine features three SU carbs from the E-type, while quad exhaust tail pipes complete the bespoke exhaust system.
There are also a number of parts preserved from Nicko’s first XJ6, including the Jaguar leaper bonnet mascot and the original ignition keys.
The car won’t be to everyone’s taste, we admit, but we’re also a little bit smitten with it. More of this please, JLR.
